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Angelina Jolie planning Catherine the Great biopic

US actress Angelina Jolie (R) poses for photographs along with her husband US actor Brad Pitt

US actress and director is set to make a film about the woman who ruled over Russia in the 18th century and her relationship with Grigory Potemkin.

According to a statement from the Orion Publishing Group seen by The Guardian, Angelina Jolie's production company has optioned the rights to Simon Sebag Montefiore's book, "Catherine the Great & Potemkin: The Imperial Love Affair".

One of the most powerful, enigmatic and fascinating women in recent history, the role of Catherine could be perfect for Jolie, however, there is no indication exactly which role she would take in the production - actor, director, producer or all three.

As well as being an Oscar-winning actress, Jolie has already directed three feature films, the latest of which, "By The Sea", set in 1970s France, is due for release in the US in November.